I’m writing to nominate a beautiful friend to be a Stronger than Stone bride, her name is Alyssa Palmer. Alyssa is the kindest, most welcoming soul you’ll ever meet. She’s also sneakily witty, and insanely talented in more ways than I can count (trust me… you want her input on your next playlist and your next paint choice).

I was so fortunate to have met Alyssa our freshman year of college at Quinnipiac University, where we became fast friends, and roommates for the remainder of our time there. I always admired Alyssa’s ability to look at situations with such a level head and a sense of humor, seeming mature beyond her years. Unfortunately, part of this maturity came at the expense of devastating loss.

Alyssa tragically lost her father, Orio Palmer, on September 11th, 2001 in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. Widely considered one of the strongest and most intelligent men of the FDNY, I’d be lying if I said I felt well-enough equipped to even begin to describe Orio Palmer. On that eleventh day of September, Orio Palmer climbed 37 flights of stairs with approximately 50 pounds of gear. He made it to the South Tower sky lobby on the 78th floor, and he is one of the few reported first responders able to make it that far up. Lots of news organizations have covered his heroic actions, and you can learn more about Orio and his heroic sacrifice here.

The inspiring stories of my Stronger Than Stone brides have a way of finding me, and Amy’s was no exception. When I saw the captivating image of her on her wedding day, adorned in a gown with magnificent butterflies, it moved me just as it had countless others. Her journey was so powerful and uplifting that I felt compelled to reach out. I’m thrilled that she agreed to join StoneWear’s Stronger Than Stone brides and share her heartfelt story of love, loss, and healing.

Amy holds vivid memories of her father, despite losing him to cancer when she was only seven. She recalls the joy and happiness he brought into her life, as well as his incredible strength. Many of these memories are kept alive thanks to her mother, who captured countless videos and photos of him, sharing them with Amy and her sister throughout their lives. Though her father was initially given just three months to live, he fought for three more years, creating cherished moments of love and joy that Amy has carried with her ever since.

“Losing my dad was incredibly challenging. I faced moments of deep sadness, especially on milestones that he should have been a part of. My mom has been my rock during this time; she embodies resilience and strength. She often shares stories about my dad, helping me keep his memory alive. Her unwavering support has taught me to cherish every moment and find joy even in the smallest things. She reminds me that grief is a part of love, and it’s okay to feel both sadness and joy simultaneously.”